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Barometer
Materials:
Coffee can or glass jar
Balloon
Scissors
2 straws
Ruled index card
Rubber band
Clear tape
Instructions:
1. Using scissors, cut the neck off the balloon
2. Extend balloon around the opening of your can/jar.
3. Further secure the balloon to the opening with the rubber band
4. With the straw level to the top of the can/jar, tape one end of the straw to the
center of the balloon with the other end of the straw overhanging the edge of
the container opening.
5. Tape the index card to a wall (or other solid vertical surface) centered on the
edge of the straw when placed next to the wall.
6. Mark where the end of the straw meets the paper.
7. Take measurements every day, a couple times each day. Check the straw’s
position and make a mark on the index card. Note the weather conditions
outside. Do you notice any trends after a couple days of observing?
The Science Behind the Experiment:
You’ve made a barometer. A barometer is an instrument used to measure air
pressure. When there is high pressure around the barometer, the balloon on the
barometer will push inwards and the straw will deflect upwards in position on the
index card. High air pressure usually means nice or pleasant weather conditions
outside.
When there is low pressure around the barometer, the balloon on the barometer will
expand outwards and the straw will deflect downwards in position on the index
card. Low air pressure usually means cloudy or inclement weather is around or on
the way.
Now become a Weather Lab Assistant!
Now that you’ve done the experiment, Send us a photo or video of you
completing this experiment to (website) We pick one Weather Lab Assistant
every Wednesday. A winner is highlighted every Wednesday on Good
Morning Iowa and on Local 5 News at 6. Each winner will be mailed a
certificate recognizing their completion of the experiment and will be
mailed a prize box with some science-y gadgets.